Klein Constantia hosts MAD CHARITY cocktail function

Merckx, who turned professional in 1965, won the Tour de France and the Giro d'Italia five times each, and the Vuelta a España once. He also won all of professional cycling's classic 'monument' races at least twice each. Merckx was World Champion once as an amateur and three times as a professional, and he broke the world hour record before retiring in 1978.

Founded in 2003 by former Springbok rugby captain, Francois Pienaar and a group of friends, the MAD CHARITY? holds the strong belief in the future of South Africa and the endless potential it holds. This year's MAD CHARITY project has a unique call-to-action in that it invites all cycling enthusiasts to ride alongside Merckx.

Funds for disadvantaged

In a further effort to raise funds for the MAD CHARITY, the project, which gives academically talented but economically disadvantaged youth in South Africa an opportunity to reach their full potential as leaders and role models, a fantastic line-up of experiences will go on auction, such as a fully sponsored trip for two to The Tour de France to follow the Omega Pharma Quick-Step Pro Team in the race. This once in a lifetime opportunity was generously sponsored by the new owners of Klein Constantia and joins the amazing line-up of prizes to be auctioned on the evening of the charity event.

The items that will go on auction are:

• Fully sponsored trip for two to the Tour de France - sponsored by the owners of Klein Constantia.
  
• A weekend away to the 5-star Royal Malewane, The Birkenhead and La Residence - sponsored by The Royal Portfolio.
  
• A top of the range road bike from Specialized Bikes.
  
• A wine hamper from Klein Constantia.
  
• Cycle memorabilia from Eddie Merckx.
  
• Donald Greig bronze sculptures.

All proceeds of the charity event and auction will be donated to MAD CHARITY's Education Programme, which provides scholarships and bursaries to academically talented youngsters from financially less fortunate circumstances.